Jose Zarate Killed in Ventura Crash on Highway 101

Ventura, California (May 18, 2023) – Jose Zarate, 50, of Ventura, was killed in a multi-vehicle collision northwest of Ventura on Monday morning, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The wreck took place on Highway 101 at about 9:25 a.m. on May 15.

Authorities said Cody Zornes, 30, of Lancaster, was driving a Ford F550 pickup north on the highway when he slammed into the rear of a Toyota Tacoma pickup driven by Zarate.

The impact caused a chain-reaction involving three other vehicles.

Zarate’s vehicle caught fire following the collision and he was pinned inside. 

Authorities said Zarate was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Zornes and the other motorists were not seriously injured.

According to the report, Zornes was charged with felony vehicle manslaughter with gross negligence and misdemeanor reckless driving with bodily injury.

The crash is under investigation.

If you have lost a loved one in a motor vehicle accident, contact Pacific Attorney Group today for a free and confidential consultation. You can also request a copy of the police report on the accident. Click to call : 866-803-6502